About
This deciduous, open sub-shrub. Slender spires of pale purple flower in late summer to autumn. Sharply toothed, mint-scented, dark green leaves turn red in autumn.
About the genus
Elsholtzia is a genus with around 40 species of annuals, perennials and semi-evergreen or deciduous shrubs and subshrubs. Known primarily for their aromatic foliage, they also produce slender racemes of tubular flowers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand, Chalk
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toN China
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun, mulch with well-rotted organic matter and use a general fertiliser such as Growmore or Vitax Q4 in early spring
PruningPruning group 6 - cut back old shoots in early spring
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free